rare breed, but if you're near Blackburn, you're in luck. The Winter Warmer 10K starts at Witton Park and after a customary dash around the track, heads straight into the countryside on the roads. The next mile is uphill, but the views at the top

's World's long-time travel partner Mike Gratton and 2:09 Events. The Four-day Challenge, from November 24-27, is a tempting medly of racing, based around the stunning Akamas Peninsular. Day One kicks off with a 6K time trial; Day Two tickles your legs

, made famous by 1940s long-distance running legend and former-world record holder Gunder Hägg. Only 129 runners finished the 2008 edition, so you’ll be in select company. A 14.5K race is also offered. Race website: www.vertex.cx Tjejmilen (August)2009

If the thought of the long, cold British winter ahead is enough to dampen your spirits, then it's time for you to sample the joys of winter racing in the sun. Jet off with your trainers and you can explore some of the world's most exotic

Cornish Marathon: Sunday, November 17WHY RUN IT?Challenge, scenery, Bodmin Moor, peaceA small winter road marathon, run over a tough, out-and-back course near Bodmin Moor with a 16-mile loop on the Moor itself.FEES£9/£10, payable to East Cornwall

Kodak Harrow Marathon, Middlesex: Sunday, November 4WHY RUN IT?A low-key winter event run from the Kodak Sports Ground close to London. The course is undulating, but it’s not too severe. The race is run together with a half-marathon.FEES£10/£11

Where and when?Saturday, October 25, Barnet and EalingWhat is it?Run London Ragged is a series of two London 10K events supported by the Big Issue Foundation.. The Ealing race takes place in Perivale Park. The Barnet race boasts a location

Where and when?November 19, December 3, 16 HertfordshireWhat is it? By day, Stevenage - Britain’s first ‘new town’ - can claim fame for having a few bits of Roman rubble and... well, not much else. But for three cold winter nights it will be home

home. Surely a holiday offer you can't refuse.More Travel Collection highlightsHimalayan 100 Mile Stage Race (October 25-November 4)Las Vegas Marathon and Half-Marathon (December 10)Che Guevara Trail Marathon and Half-Marathon, Cuba (January 11-18, 2007)

: Saturday, May 18Halstead Marathon, Essex: Sunday, May 19 SummerLake Vyrnwy Marathon, Powys: Sunday June 2 Afford Rent-a-Car Potteries Marathon: Sunday, June 16 Blackpool Marathon: Sunday, June 23Isle of Man Marathon: Sunday, August 11 Longford BMW Cars